In a strong statement, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has called for the resignation of Columbia University president Minouche Shafik ahead of his visit to the Ivy League school. Johnson criticized Shafik for being a "very weak, inept leader" who failed to ensure the safety of Jewish students on campus.

The House speaker, during an interview with radio host Hugh Hewitt, expressed his frustration with the antisemitic demonstrations that have taken hold of the Morningside Heights campus. Johnson condemned the acts as "disgusting and unacceptable" and urged leaders from all walks of life to speak out against it, stating that it does not reflect the values of America.

Johnson went further, suggesting that Congress should consider withdrawing federal funds from universities that allow such anti-Israel protests to run rampant on their campuses. However, his call for action has faced criticism from New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who accused him of "politicizing" the situation and diverting attention from more pressing issues.

Governor Hochul, who privately visited Columbia University earlier this week, defended her actions and emphasized her dedication to engaging in substantive conversations about public safety with university officials and the NYPD. She dismissed the antisemitic demonstrations as not being a "real crisis" and urged Johnson to focus on addressing the border and migrant issues instead.

In response, a spokesperson from Speaker Johnson's office fired back, stating that he was visiting Columbia University because New York officials had failed to protect Jewish students and tackle the rise of antisemitism within their party. The spokesperson expressed disappointment that such a visit was necessary.

The issue has gained attention at the national level, with all New York House Republican lawmakers, led by conference chairwoman Elise Stefanik, demanding Shafik's immediate resignation in a letter. They argued that it was time for Columbia University to "turn the page" on this chapter and find a leader who would address the concerns raised by the ongoing protests.

The protests at Columbia University have seen anti-Israel demonstrators setting up tents on campus, despite the NYPD's previous efforts to clear the illegal encampment. Reports have surfaced of protesters chanting antisemitic slurs, harassing Jewish students, and even declaring support for Hamas. Videos and witness accounts have emphasized the gravity of the situation, with one incident showing a young woman holding a sign indicating an Israeli student as a target for Hamas.

Rabbi Elie Buechler, a prominent figure at Columbia University, has advised Jewish students to stay at home due to the extreme antisemitism displayed by the protesters. As a result, classes have been moved to hybrid learning options, and Shafik has called for a "reset" to address security concerns.

Speaker Johnson's visit to Columbia University will include a meeting with Jewish students and Rabbi Yuda Drizin, the director of Columbia's Chabad chapter. Johnson aims to shed light on the challenges faced by Jewish students and express his support for their peaceful attendance of classes.

The White House, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) have condemned any acts of antisemitic harassment or intimidation at Columbia University. However, none of them have specifically called for Shafik's resignation.

Johnson also criticized what he perceived as a lack of strong leadership in the White House and certain Democrats in Congress, accusing them of allowing the spread of such protests and failing to condemn antisemitic chants. The House speaker's concerns extended beyond Columbia University, as he pointed to reports of similar protests planned to take place at Princeton University and the recent stabbing incident involving a Yale University student journalist.

It is evident that the issue of antisemitic demonstrations on college campuses has become a cause for concern. Leaders from both sides of the political spectrum are voicing their opinions, highlighting the need to address this disturbing trend and protect the rights and safety of all students.